When it comes to classic luxury sedans, the 1995 BMW 740i often stands out as a symbol of sophistication and performance. However, like any vehicle that’s been around for a few decades, it has its fair share of quirks and challenges. If you’re a car enthusiast or someone considering diving into the world of vintage BMWs, understanding the common problems and overall reliability of the 1995 BMW 740i is crucial. This model, part of the E38 generation, was known for its sleek design and advanced features for its time, but it also came with some mechanical and electrical issues that owners should be aware of. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the typical problems that have been reported by 1995 BMW 740i owners over the years. From engine and transmission issues to electrical gremlins and suspension woes, we’ll cover the key areas that might require your attention. But it’s not all doom and gloom—despite these challenges, the 740i has a reputation for being a reliable and enjoyable car when properly maintained. So, whether you’re a current owner or considering adding this classic to your garage, read on to learn more about what to expect and how to keep your 740i running smoothly.
Body Components

Parts Assessed:

Windows, power locks, manual locks, doors, trunk, tailgate, mirrors, power and manual seat controls, seat belts, sunroof, convertible top, glass defects.

Reported Problems:

N/A

Analysis:

No major problem has been reported

Parts Assessed

Brake pads, brake rotors, brake calipers, anti-lock braking system (ABS), brake lines, brake master cylinder, brake booster, parking brake, brake sensors, regenerative braking system (if applicable).

Reported Problems:

  • Valve Cover, Intake Manifold, PCV Plate Oil Leaks

Analysis:

The 1995 BMW 740i is known to have some issues with oil leaks, particularly from the valve cover, intake manifold, and PCV plate. These leaks can lead to oil loss and potential engine performance issues if not addressed promptly. While these problems are relatively common for a car of this age, regular maintenance and timely repairs can help maintain its overall reliability.

Parts Assessed

Air conditioning compressor, AC condenser, AC evaporator, heater core, blower motor, automatic climate control system, refrigerant leaks, HVAC electrical components, temperature sensors, ventilation system.

Reported Problems:

  • Multiple Power Steering Hoses May Simultaneously Fail

Analysis:

The 1995 BMW 740i has a known issue where multiple power steering hoses may fail at the same time, which can be a major inconvenience and safety concern. This problem can lead to a sudden loss of power steering, making the car difficult to maneuver. While the 740i is generally a solid vehicle, this particular issue can impact its overall reliability, so its something to keep an eye on if youre considering this model.

Parts Assessed

CV joints, driveshaft, axles, differential, limited-slip differential (if applicable), traction control system, electronic stability control (ESC), four-wheel-drive (4WD) components, all-wheel-drive (AWD) components, transfer case, driveline vibration.

Reported Problems:

  • Front Tension Strut Bushings May Fail

Analysis:

The 1995 BMW 740i is known to have issues with the front tension strut bushings, which can lead to a less stable and comfortable ride if they fail. This problem might require regular checks and potential replacements to maintain the car’s handling and overall reliability. While it’s a common issue for this model, staying on top of maintenance can help keep your 740i running smoothly.

Parts Assessed

Infotainment system, GPS navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, touchscreen display, phone pairing, backup camera, rear entertainment system, head-up display, instrument cluster, digital gauges.

Reported Problems:

  • Multiple Parts May be Recommended For Leaks in Cooling System

Analysis:

The 1995 BMW 740i seems to have some issues with its cooling system, as multiple parts might be needed to address leaks. This could suggest that the cooling system isn’t the most reliable aspect of the car, potentially leading to more frequent maintenance or repairs. If you’re considering this model, it might be worth keeping an eye on the cooling system to avoid any overheating problems.

Parts Assessed

Radiator, radiator hoses, cooling fan, water pump, thermostat, antifreeze leaks, engine coolant reservoir, overheating prevention system, intercooler (if applicable).

Reported Problems:

  • Alignment/Tire Wear Issues Due to Excessive Play in Rear Lower Ball Joints

Analysis:

The 1995 BMW 740i has some reliability concerns, particularly with alignment and tire wear issues stemming from excessive play in the rear lower ball joints. This problem can lead to uneven tire wear and potentially affect the vehicle’s handling if not addressed promptly. While it’s a known issue, regular maintenance and timely repairs can help keep the car running smoothly.

Parts Assessed

Alternator, battery, ignition switch, ignition coil, spark plugs, ignition wires, engine control module (ECM), electronic ignition system, auto stop/start function, battery cables, engine wiring harness, fuse box, relays, starter motor.

Reported Problems:

N/A

Analysis:

No major problem has been reported

Parts Assessed

Engine rebuilds, cylinder head, head gasket, timing chain, timing belt, camshaft, crankshaft, connecting rods, turbocharger or supercharger (if applicable), valve train, piston rings, oil control system, engine knocking, engine misfires.

Reported Problems:

N/A

Analysis:

No major problem has been reported

Parts Assessed

Muffler, catalytic converter, exhaust manifold, heat shields, exhaust pipes, oxygen (O₂) sensors, resonator, exhaust leaks, emissions control system.

Reported Problems:

N/A

Analysis:

No major problem has been reported

Parts Assessed

Fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel rail, fuel pressure regulator, throttle body, fuel gauge sensor, evaporative emissions system, EGR (exhaust gas recirculation) valve, charcoal canister, fuel filter, fuel tank, vapor leaks.

Reported Problems:

N/A

Analysis:

No major problem has been reported

Onboard Electronics

Parts Assessed

Cruise control, keyless entry system, push-button start, wiper motor, warning lights, power mirrors, interior lighting, exterior lighting, dashboard indicators, electronic parking brake, tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), alarm and security system, remote engine start, heated and ventilated seats, heated steering wheel, wireless charging pad.

Reported Problems:

N/A

Analysis:

No major problem has been reported

Parts Assessed

Dashboard rattles, squeaks, wind noise, door seals, weather stripping, water leaks, air leaks, excessive road noise, suspension noise, drivetrain noise, exhaust rattles, engine bay noises.

Reported Problems:

N/A

Analysis:

No major problem has been reported

Parts Assessed

Paint durability, clear coat protection, rust prevention, corrosion resistance, body panel alignment, door seals, window trim, plastic trim, metal finishes, fading, cracking, peeling.

Reported Problems:

N/A

Analysis:

No major problem has been reported

Parts Assessed

Struts, shocks, control arms, sway bars, ball joints, tie rods, wheel bearings, power steering pump, power steering fluid leaks, electronic power steering (EPS), steering rack and pinion, steering linkage, alignment issues, torsion bars, springs, air suspension (if applicable).

Reported Problems:

N/A

Analysis:

No major problem has been reported

Parts Assessed

Transmission rebuild, transmission replacement, torque converter, transmission solenoids, gear selector, gear shifting, transmission control module (TCM), transmission fluid leaks, clutch (manual transmission), automatic transmission valve body, CVT (continuously variable transmission) components, dual-clutch transmission (DCT) components.

Reported Problems:

N/A

Analysis:

No major problem has been reported

Conclusion

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